Luke 23: 33-43

When they came to the place that is called The Skull, they crucified Jesus there with the criminals, one on his right and one on his left.  Then Jesus said, “Father, forgive them; for they do not know what they are doing.” And they cast lots to divide his clothing.  And the people stood by, watching; but the leaders scoffed at him, saying, “He saved others; let him save himself if he is the Messiah of God, his chosen one!” The soldiers also mocked him, coming up and offering him sour wine, and saying, “If you are the King of the Jews, save yourself!” There was also an inscription over him, “This is the King of the Jews.” One of the criminals who were hanged there kept deriding him and saying, “Are you not the Messiah? Save yourself and us!” But the other rebuked him, saying, “Do you not fear God, since you are under the same sentence of condemnation? And we indeed have been condemned justly, for we are getting what we deserve for our deeds, but this man has done nothing wrong.” Then he said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.” He replied, “Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in Paradise.”

Collect

God of unbroken weakness, you scorn our lust for power.  Keep us faithful to Jesus Christ, crucified and victorious, in whose authority we dare to speak your truth, even in the face of injustice and death. Amen

Propers Working Group (2016)

Reflection Time 

1. What does this passage say to the church?
2. Can you think of a time when you wanted, like the unrepentant man on the cross, to have a silver bullet-a quick fix solution?
3. What does this passage say to you?
4. Do you wait impatiently for Jesus to say that you will be in paradise with him?
5. Are there any changes in your life as a Good Steward that the passage encourages you to make to be more dependent on God’s refuge and strength?
6. Catherine of Sienna, much like the repentant man on one of the three crosses, was devoted to God. Like her, do you see God as your refuge and strength, helping you when you are in trouble?